Read her story here.
How did you land your current role? Was it planned?
My journey to my current role as Operations Manager at Mailbird was quite unexpected, but ultimately, the best thing that could have ever happened to me.
I come from a marketing background and started my career as the Promotions Manager running all kinds of offline marketing initiatives. I wanted to improve my skills at an advertising agency in New York, but unfortunately, my visa application was denied without any clear explanation.
This was a very disappointing experience. However it eventually led me to Bali, where I landed my internship at Mailbird (and later also met my now husband).
At the time, Mailbird had been around for about two years and was growing fast. People loved its beautiful design and all the features that allowed them to better manage their inboxes. Seeing such a high adoption rate gave us all a sense of purpose and excitement, so we wanted to make the app even better for our growing community of users.
Working in this startup environment allowed me to wear many hats, so I gained diverse experiences across different departments. This hands-on exposure broadened my skill set and gave me valuable insights into how various sections of the company function.
Now, as Operations Manager, I leverage those early experiences to align our departments and ensure we work cohesively and efficiently towards our goals. In addition to that, my Online Business Manager certification complements my operational role. It equips me with the tools to manage projects efficiently and optimize our workflows.
My path may not have been what I had planned, but it has shaped me into the leader and manager I am today. Ten years later, it’s inspiring to see how I’ve grown along with Mailbird, which is now one of the world’s most popular email and app management tools.
What are the key roles in your field of work, and why did you choose your current expertise?
In my field of operations management, there are several key roles that contribute to the overall success of Mailbird. These roles often relate to project management, team alignment, goal setting, process documentation, optimization, and launch management.
A crucial aspect is having a bird’s-eye view of the entire operation. That allows me to understand how to integrate various elements to achieve our objectives.
I was the Marketing Manager at Mailbird before transitioning to operations. I discovered my passion for the project management aspect of my role and that I had a natural inclination toward overseeing projects and ensuring they run smoothly. My manager recognized that and gave me the opportunity to shift my focus and career 100% to operations management where I can fully embrace my strengths.
It motivates me and I thrive on working on big projects because it feels like putting together a large puzzle. First you need to sort through the various pieces, organize them efficiently, and assemble them to meet set deadlines. It’s a dynamic environment. Of course, there are ups and downs, but that means I can always learn something new, and I truly enjoy it.
Have you ever faced insecurities and anxieties during your career, and how did you overcome them?
Absolutely, like many professionals, I have faced insecurities and anxieties throughout my career. One of the biggest realizations that helped me was understanding that we all just “cook with water”. Even more important is to recognize and accept that being perfect is not a requirement. Learn to embrace your weaknesses and don’t be ashamed or hesitant to communicate them. This is the only way to overcome them.
There are so many components to manage within my role. I focused on identifying the areas where I felt passionate and could excel, and that has made a significant difference in my confidence and performance.
I also learned how important it is to openly communicate specific skills. While project and launch management may come naturally to me, they might not be as intuitive for others. This understanding helps me to communicate my strengths more confidently and support others approaching me about supporting them within those areas.
I also pursued a certification as an Online Business Manager, which played a huge role in my professional development. This certification helped me clarify my values and specific skills, and identify areas where I could improve. By focusing on my strengths while remaining open to learning and growth, I’ve been able to navigate insecurities and build a fulfilling career.
Did you (or do you) have a role model in tech or business in general?
While I haven’t had a specific role model, I’ve always looked up to leaders who inspire and empower others. During my 10 years at Mailbird, I had the pleasure to meet and work with a variety of them. Those specific people will put their own ego aside and do everything to foster a supportive and collaborative work environment.
During my Online Business Manager certification, I’ve had the privilege of working with inspiring people who have shown me how important it is to think strategically, manage operations well, and always refine the way you communicate.
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career has been managing feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. I’ve overcome these challenges by focusing on my strengths, learning from my mistakes, and seeking support from mentors and colleagues. Continuous learning and professional development, – such as obtaining my Online Business Manager certification – have also been invaluable in boosting my confidence and skills.
Ultimately, I believe that success in any role requires a combination of hard work, dedication, and a positive mindset. You can’t run away from challenges – we all encounter them. But every challenge helps you get better at what you do. It also shows you how you can avoid mistakes the next time you face something similar. If you can learn from those mistakes and celebrate your successes, you’ll be able to find meaning in your career and make a positive impact.
Working in an environment surrounded by inspiring leaders and managers, I was able to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and celebrate successes. It led me to build a fulfilling career and make a positive impact.
Entering the world of work can be daunting. Do you have any words of advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed?
The first thing I’d say is to try and understand the expectations of your role. If you’re feeling insecure, it might stem from a lack of clarity about these expectations or misalignment with the team’s goals. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to communicate your concerns with your manager or mentor.
Remember, it’s okay to admit what you don’t know. Be open to learning new skills and don’t compare yourself to more experienced colleagues. Focus on your own journey and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. By taking these steps, you can build confidence and find success and passion in your career.
About Christin Baumgarten
Christin Baumgarten is the Operations Manager at Mailbird. With a background in marketing and advertising, she initially joined the company as a PR Manager and helped turn it into one of the most popular email clients worldwide. Three years ago, Christin switched to Operations and has been thriving in this role, managing a remote team of 30 people.
Christin lives in Bali, Indonesia, with her husband, two children, and two dogs.
